Introduction to the Iowa State Cyclones
The Iowa State Cyclones have entered their final bye week of the regular season with a 6-4 record after finally snapping a four-game losing streak. This season has been a rollercoaster ride for the team, with a lengthy winning streak and a losing streak that ended their chances of contending for a Big 12 title.
The Team’s Performance
Coming into the campaign, the Cyclones were expected to contend for a Big 12 title. After a hot start to the season, with the team being 5-0 and ranked 14th in the nation, it felt like that was going to be a real possibility. Unfortunately, the long losing streak ended those chances, and the team is now trying to finish the year strong in order to have a respectable final record.
Top Offensive Performers
With 10 games completed and just two games to play in the regular season, here are the top three offensive performers for the team so far.
Deon Sama
Even though he has mostly been a backup running back for the Cyclones, there is no denying the talent that Deon Sama has. When asked to step up into a larger role because of injuries, Sama rose to the occasion and played very well. So far in 2025, he has totaled 588 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns. With a 5.4 yards per carry average, he has been highly effective when running with the football. His 177-yard performance against the Colorado Buffaloes was also one of the best games from any player on the team this year.
Tyler Brahmer
Even though the passing offense overall might be a bit of a disappointment for the program this year, the play from the tight ends has been strong. Tyler Brahmer has arguably been the best, and his numbers in the passing game have been strong. This campaign, he has totaled 33 receptions, 388 receiving yards, and five receiving touchdowns. He is second on the team overall in receiving yards, but first in both receptions and receiving touchdowns. With play from the wide receiver position being inconsistent, Brahmer has been a steady force at tight end.
Eli Hansen
Without a doubt, the top performer for Iowa State on offense this year has been their talented running back, Eli Hansen. Hansen has put together a very strong campaign despite missing about a game and a half of action with a concussion. Overall, he has totaled 721 rushing yards, five rushing touchdowns, and is averaging 5.1 yards per carry. The talented running back is also a factor in the passing game, totaling 15 receptions for 102 receiving yards. It has been a really strong year for Hansen, and with some of the struggles of Rocco Becht at the quarterback position, it has been he who has picked up some of the slack for the offense.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Iowa State Cyclones have had a season of highs and lows, with a hot start and a lengthy losing streak. Despite the setbacks, the team has some talented players on offense, including Deon Sama, Tyler Brahmer, and Eli Hansen. These players have been instrumental in the team’s success and will be crucial in the final two games of the regular season. With a strong finish, the Cyclones can still have a respectable final record and build momentum for next season.
